A child is like an axe; even if it hurts, you still carry them on your shoulders.
Finnish Proverb
Several years ago, I created ‘Proverbial Friday’ on my blog, now ‘Sunday Sayings.‘ I became fascinated with traditional proverbs and sayings, their metaphorical layers and the many different interpretations found within just a few, succinct words. I marveled at their ability to transcend race, religion, opinions and age.
These wise words offer us knowledge; knowledge that is passed to us in much the same way relay runners might pass a baton. Once it’s handed over, it is up to us what we do with it and how we pass it on.
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Published by Forestwood
A philosophic Aussie writes here at StPA, one who will readily admit to loving Scandinavia. I'm interested in global politics and what drives us to be who we are. Scratch the surface and you'll find a practical Environmentalist with an egalitarian bent, trying to unleash a little creativity via the written word.
Scandinavian culture, literature and traditions are close to my heart, even though I'm Australian. Travel and courteous discussions greatly broaden the mind, so I travel if I can and am always up for a vigorous, respectful discussion. I'm an avid reader, I enjoy photography and craft, particularly traditional art forms. I hope you'll find 'Something to Ponder About,' in my WordPress Community.
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Something to Ponder About 
Hah! I love the ax comparison. So true, they can also cut deep and have sharp tongues, but keep you warm – firewood, I know I’m stretching it – in the cold. O.K. it’s handed over, what will you do with it?
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The Finnish proverb will sit in my mind for a short while. I selected it because it grabbed my attention and help me relate to something in my own life. I agree with your interpretation. Children’s actions can often cut deep and thoughts of them constantly keep me warm, although I rarely need warming up as I live in the subtropics and it is darn hot here right now! No firewood needed these days. I used to actually have a fireplace in a previous house and it was delightful in winter – even though we only used it for a few weeks. I so enjoyed it.
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Must be a very old quote to compare children and axes.
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I imagine so! And obviously not relevant to the tropical areas.
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At this stage it’s about reinvented our selves.. love it..;-)
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I really like the Finnish proverb – we could replace Child with a whole of other things which are precious to us ….
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Why yes you could, Ju-Lyn. The proverb could just as well work with things that are priceless. Things such as children or a solid friend are some things that we readily make a sacrifice for because, ironically we selfishly want them near and dear to us. We don’t want to lose them or see them suffer. Is that what you meant?
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I love how you always know exactly what I mean to say, Amanda!
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Oh that is a kind compliment! Thank you for saying so. I am not always on the mark, though, but it is an opportunity to learn something, right?
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The quote by Shaw is my one of my very favorite ones. The Finnish proverb is interesting and though it sounds a little strange, I see what it means. Good one, Amanda.
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Thanks very much for your comment, Moon. When I think about the Shaw quote, I think, we all find ourselves in some way, but some are much more pro-active than others at finding out. Some might only give it a passing thought while others contemplate just where they are going and who they are, frequently. I think keeping ourselves open to the possibilities of life will mean sometimes we surprise ourselves at what we can do and thus who we are. If we maintain a narrow mind, nothing much will change. And that’ll mean stagnation! Who wants that?
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